Rockies bring back catcher Paul Phillips

Free agent Yorvit Torrealba still might return. But if he doesn’t the Rockies have a backup plan. They signed Paul Phillips to a minor-league contract today, The Denver Post learned, providing them with a veteran to pair with Chris Iannetta.
“I still have a shot at being the backup and I love the team,’’ said Phillips on why he returned.
Phillips will make $13,000 a month in the minors and $450,000 if he’s on the major league roster. He received an invite to spring training.
Phillips made a strong impression on manager Jim Tracy during June, particularly with the way prepared starting pitchers. Phillips hit .311 with one home run and nine RBIs in 45 at-bats. The Rockies thought so much of his work, they nearly traded Torrealba before bringing him back to the active roster.
Phillips returned to Triple-A and received a September call-up. The Rockies haven’t given up on bringing back Torrealba, who turned down a two-year, $4.5-million offer. Torrealba is considered one of the best catchers on the free agent market along with Bengie Molina and Miguel Olivo. He has attracted interest from two teams on the opening day of free agency, one in the American League and one in the National League West.

Patrick, a third-generation Colorado native, is back for his second stint covering the Rockies. He first covered the team from 2005-2009, helping chronicle “Rocktober” in 2007 and also following the team’s playoff run in 2009.

Nick Groke has worked at The Denver Post since 1997, as a sports reporter, city reporter, entertainment writer and digital editor and producer, among other newsroom posts. He also writes regularly about boxing, soccer, MMA and NASCAR.